Gloucester's preparations for their first domestic semi-final since 1999 have been overshadowed because of club owner Tom Walkinshaw's major financial worries. His Arrows formula one team no longer exists while Tom Walkinshaw Racing is in the hands of receivers.

The rugby club is operating against a backdrop of huge uncertainty, with players concerned about their long-term job prospects and supporters rightly questioning what the future holds.

But despite those troubles, Gloucester remain firmly on course for a domestic league and cup double.

And Richards, whose own team have only been to Twickenham once in six years despite dominating English and European club rugby, expects a fearsome challenge.

He said: "Gloucester have problems off the field but that won't affect their performance.

"They are a very professional side and have been by far the most successful team in the Zurich Premiership this term."

Leicester will be without injured England men Neil Back, Lewis Moody and Austin Healey but skipper Martin Johnson's participation is not in doubt even though he tweaked a hamstring during training on Wednesday.